In the Governor’s latest address he mandated (not suggested) that all non-essential businesses be closed. What’s that mean for construction? Nothing. Again, we want to thank the governor’s office for acknowledging the importance and impact of the construction industry as ESSENTIAL. This means professional offices, suppliers, service providers, construction personnel and even realtors can continue to operate, however, the following OSHA social distancing protocols and measures are to be initiated immediately:
Construction:
- Restrict meetings, safety meetings/tailgate talks, and gatherings to no more than 10 people. (Ref. – Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19, OSHA 3990-03 2020)
- Establish effective social distancing protocols, which ensure that staff maintain a 6 foot personal separation from other staff during meetings, discussions, etc. where 10 people or less are present. Ensure that social distancing protocols are maintained during operation of mobile service equipment designed for 2 or more passengers including, but not limited to, man lifts, scissors lifts, etc. (Ref. – Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19, OSHA 3990-03 2020)
- Provide sanitation and cleaning supplies for addressing common surfaces in multiple user mobile equipment and multiple user tooling. (Ref. – Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19, OSHA 3990-03 2020)
- Maintain 6 foot separation protocols for labor transportation services, such as buses, vans, etc.
- Conduct daily surveys of changes to staff/labor health conditions. (Ref. – Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19, OSHA 3990-03 2020)
- Ensure that any identified first responders in the labor force are provided and use the needed Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and equipment for protection from communicable or infections disease. (29 CFR 1910.1030)
- Provide access to potable and sanitary water (29 CFR 1926.15)
Also, we have a commitment from every city and county to continue to process new and pending applications/permits and perform inspections. Protocols are changing rapidly so check with the individual jurisdictions for their specific process, be it digital submittal, drop off, virtual, etc. Understand that this is going to require an amazing amount of creativity and collaboration. We are so thankful to have such committed public servants and ask that you be extra patient, extra grateful and be excessively thorough and thoughtful with your requests.
We urge all of our member companies and industry partners to stay informed on the latest news, facts and protocols from the State of Nevada at: https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions and follow construction industry specific updates at: https://nevadabuilders.org/covid-19-resources/